One hundred years of careful and selective breeding for the desire to retrieve has produced the modern Golden Retriever who wants nothing more than to bring you his toy or the treasure he found in the hamper or on the closet floor. Golden Retrievers were properly named because they instinctively have the need to retrieve and hold items in their mouths. However, there are times when your dog's choice of item to carry may not be appropriate.

If your dog has an inappropriate item, do not chastise him or make him feel defensive by severe reprimands or punishments. Do not chase him, scream at him, or roughly grab the item. This approach will make your dog f rightened, defensive or confused. You could unintentionally force your dog into protecting himself and the cherished item. Remember that nice, stable dogs will growl, snap and bite if frightened.

If your dog gets an inappropriate item - use your head and keep your cool. Rarely is it an emergency to get the item away from the dog, so take a moment and use your common sense. Consider how you would want to be treated if you had made a mistake or had something that was off limits. Would you prefer a screaming, yelling, angry person grabbing you or ripping the item out of your hands, or would you prefer someone to calmly ask for the item and give you something in return? If you are like most of us, your would prefer the calm exchange program instead of the forceful techniques.

Most dogs pick up the wrong items because they do not understand which items are off limits, or the item is readily available when the dog gets the urge to retrieve. Many dogs retrieve items when they greet you or to show off how wonderful they are with this great prize in their mouths. Some items, like socks, underwear and children's toys, are highly attractive to dogs. A dog that picks up items to seek attention can be unintentionally taught by the owner that grabbing the wrong things results in the most attention. He may learn that you or the children make a fuss and chase him around the house, turning the situation into a game. In this case, you could be encouraging the wrong behavior by mistake.

The "Trade" is exchanging another valued object for the one your dog gives up. It is a barter that avoids unpleasant confrontations with your dog and makes both parties happy. You get the inappropriate item away from your dog and he gets an item of equal or greater value. The most common valued (trade) object to use is food. Dog biscuits, a piece of cheese, a carrot or whatever kind of food your dog likes equally or more than the object he already has. (A few dogs will trade for an appropriate toy or bone of their own or for a quick game of fetch.) If you are going to "trade" with your dog, NEVER offer the trade object and then withdraw it at the last moment. Offering the item and then not following through creates distrust and your dog will quickly learn that you are not offering a fair trade.

The two step "Trade" is easy. First: When your dog has an inappropriate item, get the trade item (dog biscuit) and show it to your dog while simultaneously saying "Trade" in a calm and friendly voice. Once your dog realizes that you have something better, he will most likely drop the item he has and take the new one. Quiet praise for making the trade will help reinforce your dog's desired behavior. Do not force the trade item on your dog or corner your dog when trading. Remember that you are giving your dog the CHOICE, not forcing him. If your dog is under the furniture, allow enough room for him to get out in order to get the trade item. Be patient. Second: Once the trade is complete, give your dog an appropriate toy to carry around and praise him lavishly for holding an acceptable item. This second step teaches your dog which items are acceptable. If you do not have an acceptable alternative object, go out and get one! If your dog tends to pick up soft or cloth items, try giving him his own stuffed dog toy, or an old towel of his own.

All family members, including older children, should learn and practice the "Trade." This can be done by asking your dog to trade away his toy or ball (an appropriate item) and then giving it back to him after he eats his treat. When practicing, only do two or three repetitions at a time so your dog does not get tired or frustrated with the exercise. Small children should never try to grab items away from dogs. Instruct small children to find an adult if they need to get something away from the dog. Always provide supervision with dogs and small children to avoid putting your child at risk.

If your dog is protective of items (growls or snaps) or refuses to trade, call a qualified dog trainer to get immediate advice. In most cases, you can work through the undesirable behavior with some guidance. While waiting for help, avoid the situation and do not challenge your dog.


Return to Dog Training Main Page

This information is made available to you by the efforts of YGRR volunteers. To join them in helping our homeless Goldens, please consider becoming a member or making a donation.

Thank you.

TOP

Adopt A Golden • Surrender A Golden • Rescue Stories
Donations • YGRR Calendar
Helpful Dog Info • All Breed Rescue • E-Mail

About YGRR • Join YGRR • Special Events • YGRR Store